Introduction to Academic Writing

Introduction to Academic Writing

• This presentation introduces the characteristics of academic writing.
• It explores the differences between academic writing and other types of writing.

Academic Writing

• Academic writing is a written language containing ideas and concepts related to a specific discipline.
• Examples include essays, research papers, projects, articles, theses, and dissertations.

Academic Writing Structure

• Academic writing typically has three parts: introduction, body, and conclusion.
• The structure is formal and logical, allowing readers to understand the argument.

Academic Writing Tone

• Academic writing maintains a neutral and objective tone.
• It presents arguments fairly and avoids loaded or biased language.

Academic Writing Language

• Academic writing uses unambiguous language for clarity.
• Clear topic sentences help readers follow the line of thought.
• Formal language, typically in the third person, is used.

Academic Writing Citation

• Properly citing sources is crucial.
• Sources are cited in the body of the paper using footnotes or endnotes, and a reference list is included.

Academic Writing Complexity

• Academic writing uses complex ideas requiring higher-order thinking.
• Concepts address complex issues requiring critical thinking.

Academic Writing: Evidence-Based Arguments

• Arguments are substantiated with a thorough understanding of existing knowledge and academic debates, potentially within and outside the subject area.

Thesis-Driven Approach

• Academic writing often starts with a thesis statement.
• A specific viewpoint or perspective on the research problem is crucial.

Features of Academic Writing: Lexically Varied Vocabulary

• The usage of language is extensive, lexically rich, employing varied vocabulary.
• Words and phrases are chosen with precise meanings.

Features of Academic Writing: Avoiding Colloquialisms

• Avoid informal or conversational language.
• Colloquial phrases and expressions are not used.

Features of Academic Writing: Factual Accuracy

• Facts are provided accurately and precisely.

Features of Academic Writing: Objectivity

• Academic writing is objective and unbiased.
• Personal feelings or opinions don't influence the content.

Features of Academic Writing: Impersonal Tone

• Avoid the first person pronouns "I" and "we."
• Focus on a detached perspective.

Features of Academic Writing: Well-Organized Structure

• The text is organized logically with well-defined sections.
• Ideas flow consistently from one section to the next.
• Clear structure allows for easy navigation of the text.

Features of Academic Writing: Clear Explanation and Justification

• Writing is responsible and provides supporting evidence and justification for all claims.

Purposes of Reading Academic Texts

• Locate the main idea and scan for relevant information.
• Identify gaps in existing research and connect new ideas to existing ones.
• Support writing assignments by gaining information and understanding concepts.

Factors to Consider When Writing Academic Texts

• State critical questions and issues, using evidence from credible sources.
• Use precise language, avoiding jargon.
• Take an objective point of view.
• Properly list and cite all references.
• Use cautious and measured language.

Academic Language vs. Social Language

• Academic language is used for formal academic work.
• Social language is used in everyday conversations and informal settings.

Characteristics of Academic Language (Examples)

• Avoid conversational or casual language; use formal vocabulary.
• Example: Instead of "Consider" use "Assess."
• Avoid colloquialisms, slang, and journalistic expressions.
• Avoid the pronouns "I" and "we."
• Maintain an objective and unbiased viewpoint.

Academic Writing Criteria

• Academic writing uses formal language and is impersonal.
• Writing choices align to the content and audience.
• Technical terms are used as appropriate.
• The text remains objective, stating facts and providing evidence.